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Old Dec 8, 2016 | 7:50 am
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Marathon Man
FlyerTalk Evangelist
20 Years on Site
 
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: BOS, MHT
Programs: AA ltg, B6, DL, UA, AS, SPG/Marriott Plt, HH, Hyatt
Posts: 10,062
I need a mule...

Since the description of this sub forum reads: "Discussion of methods to maximize miles and/or points either through trips dedicated to no other reason than the miles/points, or through creative alteration of trips to extend their earning capacity in often unique ways." I feel my post is appropriate here.

This is a long shot but those who know the Marathon Man know I do strange and creative things, so hey what the heck...

Anyway, I need help with getting two packages to two different countries.
This is because it would cost me more to send by post than it would to do this with someone already flying there...

Of course the people involved would get to look in the packages I present to be sure the contents are ok. Also, whomever is willing to do this with me would vet me, we would speak by phone and email or text first, and we would solidify all details whereas I am willing to take the risks that things may not pan out (like if the box gets lost like airlines do sometimes). I have to put my trust in you, the flyer, and am willing to do that for your helping me with this favor.

Here's the skinny:

One of my hobbies is trading beer. I am a member of several online forums that do this and also meet people in person to trade some of today's best IPAs and stouts, sours, porters, etc. And I often have access to these, as the "Renaissance" of beer, or the "Sonoma Valley" of beer happens to have many of its routes and highlights in the northeast USA where I live.

I have shipped beer, packed well and with care to detail, to people all over the USA and have received many without issue too. But shipping internationally is quite different and can be costly and risky. And I need to get some certain beers to two friends.

As well as any minimal costs that may be involved to do this, I would offer some of these great beers to any person who would take them to these people--or at least to the city near them or where you land/to hotel or office, etc.

What I would do is discuss with you what beers you may like in a nice box for you for helping me--and I can suggest some great ones I can get for you, and I would pack that box for you and the one I am sending to my friend. I would ship those to you at your home or office promptly (there are time and coolness issues but I am aware of these depending on where you live). You could open both boxes. take out your beer and just check my other box and re seal it for me. Or pack its contents in your luggage with instructions I could offer on how best to do this. I have brought over 100 bottles and cans from all over the world in my suitcases and know methods to make this work well. Also, of course, airlines do allow it as long as it is in a checked bag and not a carry on. I would pay any extra bag fees but we are not talking about a large amount... maybe 15-22lbs worth at most, or under 10kg.

You would fly to the airport of the country that you are going to and we would let the receiver know you are there. I would have that person come get it, if that is best.

The countries are:

London, UK
Sydney, Australia


Do I have any helpers? I would imagine that the perfect person for this is someone who (A) is also creative and a bit wacky like me (B) likes or wants to try all these wild beers that are popular now (C) is flying to these countries at some point rather soon.

Again, you are already going for whatever reason you have to travel. In this deal, you get some GREAT beers for yourself for free, and you get to help a fellow traveler all in one.

Doubters and neysayers: Remember, I am offering to have the flyer fully vet me, and open whatever I am asking them to bring with them overseas. So the only risk here is that a reader here who likes beer didn't jump on this before a different beer lover did!

Thanks for considering this!

I can answer all questions here and in PMs.
Marathon Man is offline